"First and foremost, we want everyone to have a fun and enjoyable tour," event chairwoman Leann Mueller said, adding that this year's participating homeowners reflect a wide range of tastes and approaches.

"We have a do-it-yourself couple. One owner is from New Zealand; one grew up in Japan. It's a very eclectic, international group, and the homes reflect that."

Cox, the homeowner from New Zealand, lived in a townhouse in Houston's Rice Military neighborhood before moving to the Heights in 2010.

From the beginning, Cox liked the roominess of the Mosby Circle house, along with its Italianate architecture, large backyard and location on a cul-de-sac.

The house was appealing, he said, but the property needed extensive work.

The wooden floors were warping, a sign of moisture beneath. The house had no gutters, and rainwater was running down and pooling beneath the house.

Cox had gutters added and had insulation placed below the floorboards.

He also had the floors re-stained and the walls painted. The dark wooden molding was painted in white.

Serving as tour headquarters is the Houston Heights City Hall and Fire Station at 107 W. 12th St. at Yale, where visitors will find a small holiday market, food trucks and live music. Parking will be available nearby.

"The fire station will open an hour early Friday and Saturday so people can come and eat or shop and then begin the tour," Mueller said.

Limited-edition commemorative tour ornaments will be available for $12.

The station also will be serving as a tour shuttle stop.

"We're working very hard this year to make sure the shuttles are timely, and people will not have to wait for them more than 10 minutes," Mueller said.

Tickets this year will not be sold at the tour houses, but they will be available throughout the event online, at tour headquarters and at the following locations:

Part of the tour tradition is the annual tour party. This year's event, the Rockin' Holiday Party, is set for 7-10 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Houston Heights City Hall and Fire Station.

The 1950s-style party and fundraiser will include food, drinks, live music and a holiday-themed silent auction. The $75 tickets include a private tour of the decorated houses.

The holiday tour is a consistently popular event in the Heights, Mueller said.

"People are reminded of their childhood. It's nostalgic for people, and it's fun to see the different ways people decorate their homes. People come to get décor ideas, and they're never disappointed."

Tour organizers are encouraging those planning to tour Friday to come as early as possible so they see all of the houses. Tickets are good for both days, however, for those who need more time. For more information, visit www.houstonheights.org/html/holiday_tour.html.